USC Basketball Preview 2021

PreviewsNCAAMPac-12 BasketballUSC Trojans

Nov 4

Our USC basketball preview 2021 - 22 observes that last season saw the Trojans go on a solid NCAA Tournament run that ended with a 66-85 Elite Eight defeat by runners-up to be Gonzaga. Prior to that loss, USC had convincing wins against Drake, Kansas, and Oregon. That was after the USC Trojans (25-8 Overall, 15-5 Pac-12) finished second in the conference. We anticipate this season that coach Andy Enfield (157-110 USC/8 years, 198-138 Overall/10 years) and the Trojans will perform in much the same manner they did last. Although USC enjoyed their first Elite Eight run in 20 years, they lose some premium players. Still, there’s enough talent coming back and some solid incoming players to make this team a viable competitor.

Trojans Frontcourt

Although Pac-12 Player of the Year Evan Mobley has left for the NBA, older brother Isaiah Mobley, a junior, looks ready to take his place. Last season, the returning Mobley started 32 games and averaged 28.0 MPG. He contributed 9.9 PPG and 7.3 RPG while shooting 47.2 percent from the floor and 43.6 percent from downtown. Expect double-doubles from him this season. Our USC basketball preview 2021 - 22 observes that senior forward Chevez Goodwin, a 53.8 percent field-goal shooter and physical player who can mix it up inside, will have the chance to contribute more. Last year, he was good 5.6 PPG and 3.5 RPG while averaging 14.7 MPG. Although Long Beach State transfer Joshua Morgan played minimally his first USC season, the 6’11” forward has sound defensive chops and superior shot-blocking skills.

USC Basketball Preview – Backcourt

The Trojans also lose a major talent, Tahj Eaddy, in the backcourt to the NBA. Still, there are players ready to expand their minutes and increase their contributions. Junior guard Ethan Anderson, a consistent 38 percent shooter from virtually anywhere, will assume his former starting role which he lost to Eaddy last season. However, to keep his starting spot, Anderson will need to up his two-point shooting percentage and take better care of the ball. Freshman guard Malik Thomas, California’s Gatorade Player of the Year and a talented combo guard, could see plenty of playing minutes. Last year at Damien High School he averaged 22.6 PPG and 5.6 RPG. Memphis transfer and 2020-21 AAC Sixth Man of the Year Boogie Ellis joins the team. With the Tigers, he averaged 10.2 PPG and completed 38.6 percent of his threes. Returning senior Drew Peterson brings solid shooting, rebounding, and passing skills to the court. There’s also plenty of depth.